Name: Lakeside Miniature Railway
Rating: 5.0

Lakeside Miniature Railway

Esplanade, Southport, Merseyside, PR8 1RX, England

1-90 Years

Paid

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Description

The Lakeside Miniature Railway is the oldest continuously running 15-inch gauge railway in the world, offering a charming ride along Southport’s Marine Lake. Originally built in 1911, the railway provides a relaxing journey between Adventure Coast Southport and Marine Parade Ocean Plaza. It is a historic attraction that combines scenic views, heritage charm, and family-friendly travel.

The train runs beside the picturesque Marine Lake, allowing visitors to enjoy waterside views and stop for shopping and leisure at Ocean Plaza. At the Adventure Coast Southport terminus, visitors will find a café, carousel, helter skelter, and shaded seating areas. The historic railway experience showcases vintage trains and the legacy of Llewelyn’s Miniature Railway.

Return tickets cost £4 per person, single tickets cost £3 per person, and a family return journey for four costs £15. Tickets cover the full ride between both termini, with return journeys allowing passengers to explore and reboard later.

A ride on this miniature railway offers a peaceful and nostalgic way to experience Southport’s lakeside setting. The scenic route, historic charm, and nearby attractions make it ideal for families and visitors of all ages. It is a delightful stop for those seeking a gentle, heritage-rich experience by the water.

Features

Paid
Host birthday parties: No

Features

A warm welcome awaits you aboard the Lakeside Miniature Railway - the oldest continuously running 15-inch gauge railway in the world!
The train runs from outside the entrance to Adventue Coast Southport, alongside the picturesque Marine Lake to the other end of the line at Marine Parade Ocean Plaza where you can alight to enjoy some retail therapy before hopping back on board for the return journey.
At the Adventure Coast Southport terminus you will also find a cafe, carousel and helter skelter as well as ample seating in shade and sun.
This historic track was built by Mr GV Llewelyn in 1911 and was originally named ‘Llewelyn’s Miniature Railway’. The first steam train ‘King George V’ ran 17th May 1911 at 3pm.
The track was sold to Harry Barlow in 1945 when it was renamed ‘Lakeside Miniature Railway’ and the first petrol-driven trains had started running.
It is the oldest continuously running 15-inch gauge railway in the world and was sold to John Spencer in 1968, then to Don Clark and Graham Leeming in 2001.
It was purchased in 2016 by Norman Wallis, who has now begun to refurbish and improve the track and surroundings, and hopes to create a heritage museum and improved facilities for everyone.